Accuracy assessment of a low-cost UAV derived digital elevation model (DEM) in a highly broken and vegetated terrain

Abstract Digital Elevation Models (DEMs) are frequently used in geology, environment, engineering and architecture related studies. Along with the technological advances, there are also improvements in the production techniques of these data. The use of low cost UAVs and what they can achieve, are therefore important for researchers. This study was designed to find answers to two main questions. Firstly, in areas of challenging conditions, if it is feasible to produce DEM with the low-cost UAV imagery, and if the obtained precision would be comparable enough to those of the proven methods. Secondly, if the addition of Ground Control Points (GCPs) would further increase the precision. As a result of this research, the uncertainty, in other words the RMSE of the DEM data obtained from the area with challenging topography, was found to be 0.57 m. In addition, the use of GCPs provided 6 cm decrease in the overall error margin.